Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Vegan Bubble Squeak Patties?
They are a creative vegan twist on the traditional British dish made from mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts, seasoned with Old Bay and pan-fried to golden perfection.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan as it uses Earth Balance margarine instead of butter and contains no animal products.
How many patties does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 8 uneven, hockey-puck shaped patties.
What type of potatoes should I use?
The recipe suggests using potatoes chopped into bite-sized pieces; if using smaller red potatoes, you should quarter them.
How long do the potatoes need to boil?
The potatoes should be boiled for about 12-15 minutes until they are tender.
How do I prepare the Brussels sprouts for the patties?
Trim the ends and discard wilted leaves, boil them for 4 minutes with the potatoes, then immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process before shredding them.
What is the purpose of the ice water bath for the sprouts?
The ice water bath halts the cooking process, ensuring the Brussels sprouts maintain their texture and color.
Why should I dry the potatoes over low heat after draining?
Drying the potatoes for 1-2 minutes over low heat helps remove excess moisture, which ensures a better texture for the patties.
What seasoning is used in this recipe?
Old Bay seasoning is used both in the potato mixture and the flour dredge to provide a savory kick.
Can I substitute the Earth Balance margarine?
Yes, any vegan margarine or vegan butter can be used as a substitute for Earth Balance.
How do I ensure the patties don't break during shaping?
Allow the potato and sprout mixture to cool until it is manageable before attempting to shape them into patties.
What do I use to coat the patties?
The patties are dredged in a mixture of 1/2 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning.
What is the best way to fry the patties?
Heat 1/4 inch of oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat and fry the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
How many patties should I fry at once?
It is recommended to fry 3-4 patties at a time to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
What tools are helpful for flipping the patties?
Using two spatulas, or a spatula and a flat wooden spoon, helps to carefully turn the cakes and prevent oil splashes.
Why do the patties go in the oven after frying?
The oven step ensures the patties are heated through and helps re-crisp the exterior just before serving.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
How long do they bake in the oven?
They should bake for approximately 15 minutes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftover patties can be refrigerated for up to three days.
Can these patties be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the patties for up to one month.
How should I reheat leftover patties?
Reheat them in the oven at 375ยฐF to maintain their crispy texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this specific recipe uses all-purpose flour for dredging. To make it gluten-free, you would need to use a gluten-free flour blend.
What can I serve these with?
These are ideal for lunch, as a snack, or as a fun appetizer for gatherings.
How much Old Bay seasoning is needed in total?
You will need 3/4 teaspoon total: 1/4 teaspoon for the potato mixture and 1/2 teaspoon for the flour dredge.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
The recipe calls for fresh trimmed and shredded sprouts, but frozen could work if thawed and very thoroughly dried before shredding.
How much oil is needed for frying?
Use enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet with about 1/4 inch of oil.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients: potatoes, Earth Balance margarine, Brussels sprouts, all-purpose flour, Old Bay seasoning, and oil.
What should the texture of the patties be like?
They should have a crispy exterior and a soft, velvety, savory interior.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
The recipe recommends peeling and chopping the potatoes into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
Can non-vegans enjoy this recipe?
Absolutely! The recipe description notes that these patties are delicious and a must-try for both vegans and non-vegans alike.